Machu Picchu in June? - What you need to know

If you want to spend some of your vacation time visiting Machu Picchu in June, it is definitely a great idea. Not only is it a very lively and bustling month, but we also find a much more stable climate for numerous activities and adventures.

In addition, June is the month that officially marks the beginning of the dry season and a high influx of tourists. So, you’ll find more lodging options and activities available in the area.

Below, I tell you everything you should know if you decide to travel to Machu Picchu in June, and what to take into account when organizing your trip.

June: is it a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

If you don’t mind the avalanche of tourists that the sanctuary and the Sacred Valley in general receive, June could be the ideal month for you. In fact, not only is it one of the busiest months, but it also offers some of the most important and interesting celebrations, such as Inti Raymi.

That event is very important in Inca culture, as it happens during the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, which occurs around June 21. During this period, the sunlight illuminates certain areas of Machu Picchu in a special way, which provides a unique and magical experience for visitors. You won’t want to miss it!

On the other hand, you should know that the prices of accommodations and tours may be higher than at other times of the year. Also, it is possible that if you do not make your reservations in advance, you may be left without a ticket, so I recommend making them at least 6 months in advance.

What is the weather like in June?

June has possibly one of the most pleasant weather conditions of the whole year in Machu Picchu. With many sunny days, the sky remains clear and deep blue for great photographs. Therefore, rains are very rare.

However, even in June, a very dry month, Machu Picchu could dawn wrapped in a web of clouds, so I do not recommend visiting it very early in the morning, that is, at 6am. This is because the sanctuary has its own special microclimate.

Generally, we will have more sunlight and milder and cooler temperatures, mainly at night. During the day, temperatures range from 1°C at night, and up to 19°C during the day.

What to wear for Machu Picchu in June?

Although it is a sunny month, when climbing Machu Picchu I recommend wearing waterproof clothing or a light jacket, as the surrounding mountains are usually a bit humid. Likewise, I recommend a coat for the nights, as these are usually very cold.

Try to wear comfortable and breathable clothing such as T-shirts, shorts or leggings to move and walk easily. Avoid tight-fitting or heavy clothing. Also wear comfortable shoes designed for hiking that can dry quickly.

On the other hand, you should include sunscreen, a hat or cap and sunglasses, as the sun’s rays are usually very intense. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent, extra batteries, your camera, snacks and a bottle with enough water for the trail.

How crowded is January?

Crowds of tourists are inevitable in June, so it is essential to make your reservations at least half a year in advance. Costs usually increase due to the high ratio of domestic to international tourists, but there is no shortage of activities to do during your stay.

On the other hand, travel on any train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the station of Machu Picchu, will also require you to make your reservations several months in advance, especially if you travel towards the end of the month, or during the Inti Raymi celebrations.

Recommendations to visit Machu Picchu in June

June is an incredible month to enjoy many of the exciting activities that take place in Cusco. For example, the weather is quite favorable if you want to take a dip in the hot springs of Salinas near Maras, or escape the crowds you can visit Pisac or Ollantaytambo.

If you are a lover of nature in its purest state, then you will fall in love with the waterfalls in the nearby jungle. In fact, you will see many species of fish on the banks of the rivers, and endemic birds from the viewpoints, many of which can easily be seen because they love to warm up in the summer sun!

One of the amazing birds we can see is the Andean condor, which is usually visible from this month until December in the rugged mountains. So, don’t miss the chance to see this wonderful bird!

With the exception of rafting (the rivers are too low for this), travelers can hike or take tours in the surrounding area. But, if rafting is one of your favorite water sports, then head to the Apurimac River, as this waterway is at its best in June.

As I mentioned earlier, the festivals held in the month of June are one of the crown jewels. In this month, the Cuzqueña Beer Festival is also celebrated, which is the most famous brand of this drink in the country.

Local people gather in the center of the city to brew this famous beer. During the event, they play live music (mainly rock and salsa), and it takes place in the first week of June.

Finally, don’t miss the Inti Raymi festival. This is the most important celebration of the Inca and Andean calendar. It is also called “the feast of the sun” because June 21 is the shortest day of the year in the Andes, as the sun is farthest away from the earth.

Fearing the damage it could cause to crops, the Inca Empire decided to honor their gods: Inca God of the Sun and the Goddess of Mother Earth, Pachamama, to ensure the return of the sun. Be sure to witness this magnificent and interesting cultural event if you travel to Machu Picchu in June!